As computers have become the standard throughout the business world, it's important that if you don't already have some basic computer skills, you should arrange to get them. We'll review the following areas of basic computer skills below, as well as why many businesses are requiring new employees to have computer skills, and some examples of those businesses.

Also we'll cover how to obtain basic computer skills and learning popular business software -- even if you don't own a computer -- how to get such training at no cost or very little cost, and how to make that training fit your schedule, so you can complete the training in as little time as possible.

We'll also review the financial advantages and other career advantages for obtaining computer skills. And what to expect to cover in a basic computer skills class, so you can make the most of your learning efforts.

To start, let us recognize that computers are now being used in areas of business where they have previously seemed to be useless -- for instance, many restaurants now utilize computers to track sales, labor hours, inventory and more, where even servers and hostesses have to have basic computer skills to input food order details and other customer data. Retailers also now rely on computers, in fact most retail cash registers are now computers that relay each sale to the home office in a matter of seconds, so basic computer skills are required, especially for individuals who hope to advance into a management position. So by understanding computer basics, a person can then be quickly trained on the specific computer programs used on a given job, which makes that person more valuable to the employer.

Most people without computer skills feel it's an expensive and challenging task to acquire them. It's not true. You don't have to attend college or tech school or sign up for expensive and time-consuming tutorial classes. Most cities, Counties and States often offer free or low-cost computer classes for beginners, through libraries, social service programs, schools, and churches. Typically, with just a little bit of searching, you can find such programs in your own community, even in rural locations. Many such programs require only a few hours of time, and are usually organized to fit hectic schedules; and usually offer lots of support and follow up, to assure the student benefits from the learning experience.

Nor do you have to own your own personal computer to learn basic computer skills. Usually, such basic courses as we're describing in this broadcast, include access to a computer and access to popular business software, so the student can learn without having to make an expensive investment in a personal computer. Yet still learn the skills and help improve their employment circumstance.

What are the advantages to you to improve your computing skills?

Dramatic. Often such skills can increase your income range from 10% to over 30%. For instance: an office file clerk making $6.50 an hour now can increase their income up to $9 or $10 an hour, or more, by having the added computer skills of inputting file data into an office computer database, or being able to coordinate interoffice communications via email or instant messaging -- both comparatively simple skills to learn. And many retailers will consider retail clerks for entry level management jobs if that job candidate possesses some retail experience and has some basic computer spreadsheet know-how -- spreadsheets being a very basic method of tracking sales and generating retail reports; in fact, reporting is an important part of operating any business, but especially so in sales organizations -- so a secretary who can operate his or her own office desk AND also produce sales reports on an office computer, can earn up to $15 to $18 per hour.

Ideally, you'd want to find a general computer course that covers basic computer use and popular business software and computer terminology. Also, something that would describe the basic hardware components of a PC and introduce basic skills for using software programs in a MicroSoft Windows environment. It should also cover such topic as how to start the computer, how to run various programs, how to shut down the computer, how to control windows and understand its menus, how to get to the help in Windows and in other programs, so you can tutor yourself if needed. Also, how to create new text documents and spreadsheets, and to open and save files. Typically, basic computer classes offer exercises that allow users to practice with popular business software, like Excel, WordPerfect and others, even if the student doesn't have a computer at home.

Now is the time to begin learning basic computer skills. Such skills will only become more important to job performance and income earning potential as the 21st century moves forward. Seek out such training now. Organize yourself to access it so you can influence your personal future in a positive manner.

Good Luck With Your Job Search